Maya Pistola Agavepura’s Reposado expression has been crowned ‘Spirit of the Year – India’ at the USA Spirits Ratings 2025, the highest recognition awarded to an Indian brand at this year’s event. The craft agave spirit simultaneously launched in the UK exclusively through The Whisky Exchange.
The accolade represents a significant milestone for Indian craft spirits on the global stage.
Asia’s first aged 100% agave spirit has now accumulated over 50 international medals since its 2022 launch.
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READ THE STORYThe brand pioneered a new spirits category called ‘Agavepura,’ which denotes 100% agave spirits distilled without additives.
Rakshay Dhariwal, Founder & Director of Maya Pistola Agavepura, said: “Winning ‘Spirit of the Year – India’ is a milestone not only for Pistola but for the entire category of Agavepura that we are building. Launching in the UK at this exact moment makes it even more meaningful – it’s proof that Indian craftsmanship is more than just Whisky.”
The USA Spirits Ratings competition is organized annually by the Beverage Trade Network in San Francisco. Industry professionals judge entries across three criteria: Quality, Value, and Packaging.
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Maya Pistola’s Reposado earned a Gold Medal with 95 points at the competition. The Añejo won Gold with 92 points, while the Joven secured Silver with 89 points.
UK consumers can now purchase four expressions through The Whisky Exchange’s London outlets and online platform.
The range includes Añejo $52.35 (£39.95), Extra Añejo $83.80 (£63.95), Reposado $45.80 (£34.95), and Joven $41.87 (£31.95).
Each expression showcases different aging profiles using Virgin American White Oak and ex-Bourbon barrels.
The spirits are produced from Wild Agave Americana grown on India’s Deccan plateau highlands. Production takes place in Goa, where each small batch is aged, blended, and bottled.
United Spirits acquired a 15% stake in parent company Inspired Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. for Rs 5.65 crore in April 2024. The investment demonstrates major industry confidence in India’s emerging craft spirits sector.
